We recently sat down with Julia Sarcone-Roach, Author Of “The Bear Ate Your Sandwich” to ask some questions about her book, and what it means to be part of Read for the Record.
What is The Bear Ate Your Sandwich about and what inspired you to write the story?
The Bear Ate Your Sandwich is about a mysterious sandwich disappearance, one bear’s adventure in a big city, and a sneaky storyteller.
I was inspired to write this book because sometimes I feel out of place. On busy sidewalks, I feel like a big lumbering bear. It seems like no one sees me, but I’m in everyone’s way. One day, I wondered if anyone would notice an actual bear. Also, I like sandwiches.
What does it mean to you for The Bear Ate Your Sandwich to be this year’s official Read for the Record book selection?
Jumpstart’s Read for the Record is a wonderful program. To imagine children and adults reading the same book all around the world on the same day is amazing. It’s an incredible honor that The Bear Ate Your Sandwich is this year’s official book selection. I am humbled and delighted!
What was your favorite book as a child?
I had many favorite books as a child, a few of the most worn out copies on my shelf were: The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf, illustrated by Robert Lawson; The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton; Nutshell Library by Maurice Sendak; The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats; The Country Bunny And The Little Gold Shoes by DuBose Heyward, illustrated by Marjorie Flack; and Anno’s Journey by Mitsumasa Anno.
Did you always love reading?
I have always loved reading. I like reading together, being read to and reading by myself. I also love books where I can read a story in the pictures. Sometimes the words and pictures tell different stories, and it is fun to look closely.
Did you always know that you wanted to be a writer?
I always knew I wanted to tell stories. As a child, I probably would have confidently informed you that I already was a writer. I liked making up stories and putting on plays. As I grew up, I became curious about other kinds of storytelling like paintings, comics, and films. Now whether it’s with words or pictures, that’s what I do. I tell stories.
If you were pitching your book to a 4-year-old, what would you tell them?
I’d ask, “What do you think would happen if a bear found a sandwich?”
Have you participated in any similar literacy events/programs in the past?
I have worked with several great nonprofit organizations:
- Behind the Book, an organization that brings authors and books to underprivileged children in New York City schools.
- Reach Out And Read, a national organization that partners with doctors, prescribing free books, and emphasizing the importance of reading aloud.
- First Book, a national literacy organization that works to provide disadvantaged children with new books.
Hear more from Julia Sarcone-Roach as it gets closer to the 11th anniversary of Jumpstart’s Read for the Record on Thursday, October 27, 2016. Don’t forget to register to read!
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